Law commission review of wills

The Law Commission has published a 270-page consultation paper analysing the law of making Wills. Although the review is broad in scope, a central theme of modernisation can be discerned. There are proposals for the increased use of technology such as electronic signatures and even "video Wills". Questions over what should happen to the deceased's digital assets, such as social media accounts, are also considered. In the world of medicine, an improved understanding of mental conditions such as dementia has also prompted proposals for reform to the law governing a person's capacity to make a Will. Potentially sensitive social issues are also scrutinised, with the Commission ultimately recommending that the minimum age for Will-making be reduced from 18 to 16. The consultation runs from 13 July to 10 November. We will be responding to the questions posed and will keep you updated on the outcome in due course.